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Herbs that protect the heart: Bilobalide reduces cardiac damage in myocardial ischemia, says new study in Journal of Pharmaceutical Analysis

Researchers found that bilobalide, an active ingredient in Ginkgo biloba extract, protects the heart from ischemic injuries by preserving ATP generation and enhancing metabolic flux. The study suggests that bilobalide may provide a new herbal therapy for treating myocardial ischemia.

SourceCactus Communications·JournalJournal of Pharmaceutical Analysis·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 24, 2022

Hummingbirds exert fine control over body heat

Researchers discovered multiple levels of torpor in hummingbirds, including shallow and deep states, as well as a transition stage between normal sleep and torpor. This flexible control allows hummingbirds to conserve energy while minimizing potential costs, such as increased vulnerability to disease or predation.

SourceCornell University·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 2, 2022

The unexpected benefits of fat in type 2 diabetes

Researchers at UNIGE found that fat can aid pancreatic beta cells in adapting to excess sugar levels. The study reveals a dynamic cycle of fat storage and mobilization allows cells to maintain near-normal insulin secretion. Regular physical activity may help give this beneficial cycle a chance to be active.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalDiabetologia·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 12, 2022

Researchers simulate an acute decline in exercise, as many experienced during COVID19 lockdowns, to study its metabolic consequences

A team of researchers simulated the loss of physical activity during COVID19 lockdowns to study its effects on metabolism. They found that mice's energy sources shifted based on their diet composition after a sharp decline in exercise, leading to weight gain.

SourceBen-Gurion University of the Negev·JournalPhysiological Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 6, 2021

Convergent mechanism of aging discovered

Researchers have discovered folate metabolism as a common mechanism underlying aging and lifespan extension across different species. The study found that altering folate metabolism increases lifespan in worms and mice by up to 30 percent, suggesting a potential new approach to improving human health during aging.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 16, 2021

A link between type 2 diabetes and mitochondrial function

A recent study published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation has shed new light on the relationship between type 2 diabetes and mitochondrial function. Researchers found that heat shock protein 60 (HSP60) is crucial for appropriate mitochondrial function and insulin responses, while leptin plays a key role in regulating HSP60.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateOct 1, 2013

New study indicates higher than predicted human exposure to the toxic chemical bisphenol A or BPA

A new study published in Environmental Health Perspectives ties rodent data to predictions of human health effects from BPA, suggesting human exposure is much higher than estimated and likely from unknown sources. The study's findings renew the call for governmental agencies to identify all products containing BPA.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·DateSep 20, 2010